Tips for Opening Your Above Ground Pool

As we embrace the warmer weather, it’s the perfect time for above ground pool owners to start thinking about opening their pools. At Bonnie & Clyde’s Pools and Spas, we encourage you not to wait until swimming season is in full swing. Opening your pool now ensures it’s clean, balanced, and ready for those first swim days. Here are some essential tips to help you open your above ground pool efficiently.

1. Monitor Water Temperature

Contrary to popular belief, opening your pool early doesn’t mean higher chemical costs. It’s about timing and readiness. Aim to open your pool when the water temperature consistently reaches 65 degrees. This helps prevent algae growth and maintains water balance.

2. Clear the Pool Cover

Before removing your pool cover, ensure all water is siphoned off. Even a small amount can complicate cover removal and lead to dirty water entering your pool. We offer electric and hand siphon pumps to make this step easier. After removal, rinse and dry the cover in the sun before storing.

3. Maintenance While Filling

As your above ground pool fills, take the opportunity to perform general maintenance. Change the sand in your filter if needed or deep clean your cartridge filter.

4. Reconnect Equipment

Carefully reattach all hoses to your equipment, ensuring they’re correctly connected to the labeled ports on your sand filter valve. Don’t forget to lubricate all O-rings to prevent leaks.

5. Prepare the Above Ground Pool

Once filled, remove the skimmer compensator and return the plug. If you haven’t changed the sand, start with a chemical clean of your filter using Filter X, a backwash filter cleaner, once the pump is on.

6. Tackle the Water Line

If there’s a waterline stain or build-up on your pool liner, clean it with TV-X Vinyl cleaner and a liner-safe scrubber. This cleaning product is safe for your liner and won’t affect water balance.

7. Remove Debris

Clear any leaves and debris using a skimmer net and/or vacuum. Follow up by adding a Spring Start-Up Kit and running the pump for 24 hours.

8. Test the Water

Now’s the time to bring in a water sample for testing. It’s important to get an accurate reading of your pool’s chemistry to ensure it’s balanced and ready for use.

9. Exterior Check

Inspect the area around your above ground pool. Look for leaks around the skimmer and return, remove any encroaching grass, and maintain an 18-inch grass-free border around the pool.

10. Filter and Salt System Care

Deep clean your DE or cartridge filter. If you have a salt system, inspect and clean the salt cell, and add salt as needed.

11. Safety First

Don’t forget to check all safety equipment, including ladders, steps, and railings, to ensure they are secure and in good condition. Safety should always be a top priority when preparing your above ground pool for the season.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your above ground pool is in top shape for the upcoming season. Remember, opening your pool early is not just about beating the rush. It’s about ensuring that your pool is clean, balanced, and ready for enjoyment as soon as the warm weather arrives. Don’t wait until the last minute to open your pool. Get ahead of the game and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained pool, ready for those first sunny days of swimming and relaxation.

If you have questions, need supplies, or need support, visit any of our Bonnie & Clyde’s locations and follow us on Facebook. We’re more than just a pool store — we’re your partner in creating memorable summer moments with family and friends. Let us help you kick off the pool season with confidence and ease.